The Riddle
Vai Steve Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Never be misunderstood.
So let's make love...
Let's make love again...
Is that a proposition?
Now let's make love.
Of the United States of America
And to the Republic for which it stands
One nation, under God
Indivisibile, with liberty and justic for all.
With liberty and justice for all.
With liberty and justice for all.
With liberty and justice for all.
With liberty and justice for all.
Which liberty and justice for all.
In the song "The Riddle," Steve Vai sings about the ambiguity of language and communication. The first line of the lyrics, "There is nothing that could never be misunderstood," sets the tone for the rest of the song, which explores the difficulty of truly understanding what others mean when they speak. Vai suggests that even the simplest statements can be misinterpreted, which is why he proposes making love instead, as physical connection can communicate more effectively than words.
The second set of lyrics seems completely unrelated to the first, as Vai recites the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag. However, this section reinforces the theme of communication, as the pledge represents a shared understanding of what it means to be an American. The repetition of "with liberty and justice for all" at the end of the section highlights the importance of these values in promoting clear communication and mutual understanding among individuals.
Overall, "The Riddle" is a song about the complexities of human communication and the importance of finding alternative ways to connect when words fail. Vai suggests that physical intimacy and a shared sense of values can bridge the gaps that language sometimes creates.
Line by Line Meaning
There is nothing that could
Nothing is beyond comprehension or misunderstanding
Never be misunderstood.
Everything is susceptible to misinterpretation
So let's make love...
Let's engage in intimate physical activity
Let's make love again...
Let us participate in the same act of intimacy that we've previously shared
Is that a proposition?
Are you suggesting a sexual encounter?
Now let's make love.
I am now open to engaging in an intimate act with you
I pledge all allegiance to the flag
I vow to remain loyal to the symbol representing our country
Of the United States of America
Of the nation known as the United States of America
And to the Republic for which it stands
And to the government founded on the principles of a representative democracy
One nation, under God
A single country, governed by a divine being
Indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
Non-separable, with freedom and fairness extended to every individual
With liberty and justice for all.
Everyone is entitled to their freedoms and legal treatment
With liberty and justice for all.
No one is excluded from the right to be free and receive proper judicial measures
With liberty and justice for all.
Each person is deserving of liberty and a just legal system
Which liberty and justice for all.
What kind of freedom and impartiality is being recognized for everyone?
Contributed by Jeremiah B. Suggest a correction in the comments below.